Buenos Aires, the bustling metropolis of Latin America, surprises tourists with one of its most famous attractions – the Recoleta Cemetery. This cemetery is not just a burial ground but a stunning display of Art Nouveau and neo-Gothic mausoleums, including the tomb of the beloved Eva Peron and a charming colony of cats. Visitors often found themselves captivated by these feline residents instead of the grand architecture.
The trend of adopting these cats has led to a decline in their population from over 60 to just six today. Despite the controversy surrounding the adoption drive, cat welfare advocates see this as progress for the well-being of the animals. The caretaker, Marcelo Pisani, dedicates his life to these cats, relying on donations to feed and care for them.
As the Recoleta Cemetery undergoes changes to ensure the cats’ welfare, the once beloved stray cat colony is gradually disappearing. This transformation highlights the complexities of managing urban fauna and the importance of community involvement in caring for stray animals.
Will the Recoleta Cemetery eventually be devoid of its feline residents? Only time will tell.